The Best of New Orleans: Live Music

Considered to be the birthplace of Jazz, the Big Easy now hosts musical performances from all kinds of genres. Check out the best spots to catch some New Orleans live music—don’t forget your dancin’ shoes.

First-Timers

Rock ‘n’ Bowl

Yes, it’s a bowling alley, but the owner prefers to think of it as a “great live music and catering hall that happens to also have 18 bowling lanes.” More than anything, it’s a conduit for local music and, fittingly enough, a very naturally New Orleans experience.

Tipitina’s

Tip’s was founded in 1977 as a neighborhood juke joint and has survived the city’s ever-changing musical climate, growing from a small, local bar into an international music icon. The club has welcomed many of the Crescent City’s most beloved artists, making Tip’s a kind of local proving ground for burgeoning musicians.

Preservation Hall

Since opening in 1961, Preservation Hall has become the sanctuary for New Orleans Jazz music. It hosts nightly shows by veteran and newcomer musicians, including regularly soldout performances by the house’s immensely popular Preservation Hall Brass Band.

The Spotted Cat Music Club

If you’re looking for a real jazz club with a cozy atmosphere and intimate vibe, then The Spotted Cat is going to be your new favorite place. Here you’ll find nothing but local musicians playing their hearts out.